For Constable Maddi Cullen, the saying “home is where the heart is” could not be more true.
It is the reason she chose to begin her policing career in Rockhampton, the community she has always called home.
“Knowing that I can make a positive difference in my own community is incredibly rewarding,” Constable Cullen says.
With an interest in policing from a young age, a career with the Queensland Police Service was always on the radar.
“I can still remember attending an emergency services day when I was in primary school and becoming fascinated with policing.
“It was a career I dreamed about from a young age, and I still feel incredibly proud every time I put on the uniform,” she shares.
After working in admin and studying Accident Forensics, Constable Cullen took the leap and began her paid training at the QPS Academy in Brisbane in 2023.
She says she has never looked back.
“I loved my time at the Academy and made some lifelong friends.
“One of the biggest things I took away from the experience was how much I grew as a person.
“I developed confidence, resilience and the belief that I was capable of more than I initially thought.
Since graduating from the academy, Constable Cullen has returned to her roots in Rockhampton, where every day on the beat brings new experiences and challenges.
“Regional policing provides a really diverse range of operational activities.
“You can attend anything from family and community matters to serious incidents, traffic crashes and complex investigations, often within the same shift.”
She says working in a regional area allows local officers to really see the difference they are making in the community.
“I have met people from all walks of life and gained a much greater understanding of the challenges and issues affecting our community.
“It’s allowed me to see firsthand the positive impact police officers can make in people’s lives.
“I love being in a position where I can help people when they need it most, whether that is through something significant or simply making someone’s difficult day a little easier.”
She says choosing a career in policing was one of the best decisions she’s ever made, and encourages anyone with an interest in serving the community, to consider it too.
“Just go for it!” she says.
“Don’t let setbacks convince you that you aren’t capable.
Get involved in your community, volunteer, build your communication skills and, most importantly, be yourself.
Policing needs people with different backgrounds, personalities and strengths — you don’t have to fit a particular mould to be a great police officer.”
To learn more about the diverse roles and opportunities you can experience as a Queensland police officer, visit PoliceRecruit.qld.gov.au